BB Creams Vs CC Creams – Which One’s Right For You?

It’s likely you will have heard of and even purchased a BB cream (Blemish or Beauty Balm) and you may have recently discovered CC creams (Colour or Complexion Control). Many cosmetic brands have recently launched CC creams, I’ve seen lots advertised this month. If you’re not clear on what the difference is between them in simply terms,

Definition of BB and CC Creams

BB creams were originally formulated in Germany, as a skincare product that you use on top of your moisturiser every morning after your skin care routine before you apply your foundation. The benefits of using a BB cream is that it contains anti-ageing properties and UV protection. Where as a CC was developed in Korea, they still contain skin care properties, it also helps to correct uneven skin tone or redness. CC creams offer more coverage similar to a tinted moisturiser with more norishing properties. Depending on how much coverage you like, you could use them alone or instead of a primer under your foundation. Now you might be thinking which one if for me?

How To Decide Whether To Buy a BB or CC Cream

Many women who have fair or olive complexions feel that as a BB Cream is available in only a few shades that it’s hard to blend into their skin tone. If you like a natural coverage rather than a heavy foundation it would be better value for money to use a BB Cream. However if you are more concerned about your skin and you have little time to apply your make up in the morning I’d recommend that you use a CC Cream because it has all the benefits of a BB cream, with better coverage to disguise dark spots and imperfections. Because CC Creams are thicker I’d recommend that if you have an oily complextion that a BB cream would be better for you, as it will help to absorb shine.

My favourite BB and CC Creams

As a make up artist in Manchester I have a few in my kit however the one that I use the most and recommend to my clients is Kiehls ‘Actively Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream’ (£23.50) I like it because it contains SPF 50, is suitable for sensitive skin, smells amazing and always blends in well.

If you have never tried one before L’oreal are giving away free samples of their Nude Magique CC Cream. It’s great as you can pick between 3 products, green to neturalise redness, apricot to revive tired skin and mauve to transform dullness. To register and receive your free sample click here.